Things have "settled down" quite a bit since those days.
Eagle scout and OA member here. The ordeal (mid 1980's) did not seem so extrem. I do remember wilderness survival merit badge. For that, they dumped us in the woods with minimal gear. Told us to get a fire going. We did - and by the time they brought dinner (raw chickens - at least they weren't alive), the fires were all out. It was about 1am at that point. I remember rebuilding the fire, and then eating half-burnt / half-raw chicken. Followed by lots of critters coming for the leftovers.
I think if the Scouts of America (we aren't called 'Boy Scouts' anymore) did that today, there would be charges filed.
My son is currently a "Life" and working on his final merit badges - hopefully gets interested and committed to an Eagle project before the "Fumes" kick in. (PerFUME and Gas FUME). I have a narrow window.....
The most remarkable element of our tap-out ceremony was the lighting of the fire. One of the OA members shot a flaming arrow from somewhere outside of camp. Nailed the fire pit. Always thought that was pretty cool.
Happy 4th to all of you Scouts.